When "Exchange" surveyed leaders of North America's largest non profit child care organizations about threats facing their organizations, not surprisingly, the "state of the economy" was foremost on their minds. What is surprising is that these organizations have been able to weather the economic storm quite well. One should…

Considering how bad the economy was in 2009, North America's 50 largest for profit child care chains fared pretty well. In fact, about half of these organizations actually expanded their capacity in 2009--although the expansion was not spectacular, averaging just under 3%. About one-fourth of the organizations maintained their capacity and a…

Discusses major developments in the for-profit child care industry. Reports on the expansion of national and regional chains, the emergence of new companies, and the status of child care centers owned by small proprietors. Lists the nation's 50 largest for-profit child care organizations. (RJC)

Delineates significant developments in the employer- sponsored child care arena. Highlights predictions from chief executive officers of the largest employer child care organizations for the most significant trends in employer child care: slowing growth, consolidation, increasing demands for back-up care, globalization, and multi-site strategies.…

Owners and executives of hundreds of for-profit child care centers in the United States were surveyed to determine their economic status. The 50 largest centers experienced limited growth in 1991, and the three largest chains grew the slowest. The most growth was found in the Southeast. The top 50 centers are listed. (LB)

Until August 2001, demand for child care services was strong, with the for-profit sector registering modest growth. However, the deepening recession and terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 contributed to changing priorities for child care providers. Rising unemployment has lessened demand for services, and anxieties resulting from the…